Big Bel upon arrival.

11/25 Turtle was traferred to Mote for further treatment from C.R.O.W. wildlife rehabilitation facility in Sanibel. Turtle was treated at C.R.O.W after being found stranded off Fort Myers. It had possible pnuemonia, generalized edema, and 22 pounds of epibiota growth on carapace. Turtle likely suffering from lethargic loggerhead syndrome. Turtle arrived at Mote in fairly good condition. It was placed in a full tank of water and accepted food offered right away. Turtle was orginally eating live crab at C.R.O.W., and has adjusted to squid and fish diet very well.  Resting on bottom and actively foraging. Big Bel has two old wounds, is missing part of a front flipper and most of a rear flipper. 11/26 Bloodwork indicates very low iron and calcium levels. Iron injections started and calcium supplements given in food.  12/10 Iron and calcium levels improving, animal eating well. 12/21 Turtle moved to large med pool. Iron levels low, iron injections given.  1/6 Iron levels and hematocrit still low, switching to oral iron supplements. Turtle is doing great in large med pool. 1/13 Blood work shows improvement in hematocrit levels, iron supplements still continued. 2/11 All health assessments look good. Big Bel may be eligible for release soon. 2/22 Big Bel was released off of Lido Beach, where a small crowd gathered to say goodbye! 

Big Bel during treatment

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Big Bel's Release